Self-directed learning readiness and nursing competency among undergraduate nursing students in Fujian province of China

Aims: We examined the relationship between self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) and nursing competency among undergraduate nursing students. Background: There is little evidence-based data related to the relationship between self-directed learning (SDL) and nursing competency. Methods: A descriptive correlational design was used. We conducted convenience sampling of 519 undergraduate nursing students from three universities during their final period of clinical practice. We investigated SDL according to the SDLR scale for nursing education (Chinese translation version), and used the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurses to evaluate nursing competency. Results: The mean SDLR score of the students was 148.55 (standard deviation [SD] 18.46), indicating intermediate and higher SDLR. The mean score for nursing competency was 142.31 (SD30.39), indicating intermediate nursing competence. SDLR had a significant positive and strong relationship with nursing competency. Conclusion: SDLR is a predictor of nursing competency